50 Practical Gifts For New Moms

Bundle-of-joy essentials for your baby.

50 Practical Gifts For New Moms LightField Studios / Shutterstock
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Attending a baby shower or celebrating a new momma in the near future — albeit a virtual celebration? No worries. We've got you covered.

Though there's plenty of adorable and over-the-top extras to buy your favorite momma or poppa-to-be, this gift guide focuses on parental necessities.

We've rounded up 50 practical gifts for new moms, the type of items she'll definitely need when baby is born.

Grouped into categories ranging from baby wardrobe to baby feeding to baby sleeping — and much, much more — you'll be a lifesaver if you arrive with any of these newborn essentials in hand. (And bonus: this guide doubles as a helpful checklist for moms-to-be who are organizing their baby registries.)

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So whether you're a first-time mom, mom to a brood of kiddies and expecting another, or shopping for a pregnant friend, you can't go wrong with any of these practical-and-perfectly-sweet options. 

Happy buying and/or nesting! 

Baby Wardrobe

1. Mori Welcome To Our World Set

Mori Welcome to the World Set

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This Welcome to the World set makes the perfect gift for a new arrival. It includes four of Mori's softest-yet-practical essentials all crafted in their signature organic cotton and bamboo fabric which is gentle on a newborn's sensitive skin. The set also features their bestselling zip-up sleep & play one-piece and kimono bodysuit ideal for keeping little ones comfortably covered day and night, along with a hat and blanket.

(Mori, $92)

2. SwaddleDesigns Transitional Swaddle Sacks

SwaddleDesigns Transitional Swaddle Sacks

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This swaddle sack is designed to bridge the gap from swaddling to sleeping sack. When baby is ready to transition from a swaddle, but not ready for a sleeveless wearable blanket, the Swaddle Sack is a great option to keep baby snug and warm and allow them to self-soothe by sucking on their hands.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

3. Nesting Days Newborn Baby Pants & Hat

Nesting Days Newborn Baby Pants & Hat

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This festive newborn white/red Stripe legging and cap set in soft stretch jersey is perfect for a holiday baby — or any baby, really.

(Nesting Days, $10)

Baby Nursery

4. Slumberkins Ibex Snuggler & Board Book 

Slumberkins Ibex Snuggler & Board Book

Created by a family therapist and an educator, Slumberkins are play-based routines that help caregivers and children develop positive attachments and a better understanding of their emotions. Each story uses research-based emotional development techniques and positive affirmations to teach little ones how to understand and support their big feelings.

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(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

5. WavHello SoundBub, White Noise Machine and Bluetooth Speaker

WavHello SoundBub, White Noise Machine and Bluetooth Speaker

A Bluetooth-enabled portable speaker and white noise machine designed to be a convenient aid for active parents and a soothing, fun companion for your little one. Simply press SoundBub’s bellybutton to activate built-in white noise to help your child drift off to sleep. You can also play music they already love by connecting any Bluetooth-enabled device. 

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(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

6. Dylan's Candy Bar x Aden + Anais Dream Blanket

Dylan's Candy Bar x Aden + Anais Dream Blanket

Made with four layers of 100% cotton muslin, this snuggly blanket by aden + anais ensures playtime, cuddle time and bedtime are nothing less than dreamy. 

(Dylan's Candy Bar, $24.98)

7. Scandiborn Edvin Baby Gym

Scandiborn Edvin Baby Gym

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A beautiful, padded place for your little one to play or just relax.

(Scandiborn, $119)

8. Meri Meri Happy Weather Baby Mobile

Meri Meri Happy Weather Baby Mobile

Add a beautiful, colorful touch to your little one's nursery with this adorable baby mobile. Featuring a shiny star, bright rainbow, and a sweetly smiling sun and cloud, all made from soft knitted cotton. 

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(Meri Meri, $55)

9. FamoKids Crystal Collection Play Mat

FamoKids Crystal Collection Play Mat

Whether during tummy time or when you're capturing those quiet moments during nap time, enjoy this hand-illustrated, crystal-foam play mat.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

10. Nest Bedding Certified Organic Crib Mattress

Nest Bedding Certified Organic Crib Mattress

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Babies spend approximately 50% of their time sleeping, so offering a safe and pure sleeping environment is key to giving children the best start in life. Designed and built by the experienced craftsman at OMI in Northern California, which is trusted to produce the highest-quality sleep goods on the market.

(Nest Bedding, prices vary)

11. Bohemian Mama Over The Rainbow Organic Crib Sheet

Bohemian Mama Over The Rainbow Organic Crib Sheet

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 We're over the rainbow for this crib sheet made for your sweet little dreamer.

(Bohemian Mama, $48)

12. Hugomat

Hugomat

A non-toxic, cushioned baby mat that was designed to be portable and easily moved around the home with one hand that's perfect for play-time, tummy-time, and nap-time. It’s perfectly cushioned with thick certified natural latex foam, wrapped in a removable, quilted cotton cover. With handles and a side pocket, it folds in half, allowing easy movability throughout the home or for travel

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(Hugomat, $180)

Baby Diapering

13. Eco Pea Co. Natural Bamboo Diapers

Eco Pea Co. Natural Bamboo Diapers

These natural diapers, made from biodegradable bamboo sheets, are hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, and designed specifically for sensitive skin. They also include bells & whistles such as a wetness indicator, size label, blowout guard and snug-fitting technology. 

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(Eco Pea, prices vary)

14. EliteBaby Diaper Bag Backpack

EliteBaby Diaper Bag Backpack

This chic, unisex diaper bag with adjustable shoulder straps is the perfect diaper bag for Mom or Dad. Ample space provides maximum accessibility on the go, plus thick padded shoulder straps provide you comfort even when you’re weighed down. 

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(EliteBaby, $59.99)

15. Kibou Deliberately Minimal Diaper Bag

Kibou Deliberately Minimal Diaper Bag

For a more streamlined diaper bag approach, this deliberately minimal diaper bag is designed to sit comfortably on your waist and effortlessly go everywhere with you and your little one. 

(Kibou, $89)

16. EmBeba Don't Be Rash Diaper Balm

EmBeba Don't Be Rash Diaper Balm

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Originally created and used in the Bosnian countryside to help soothe skin from working hard on the farm during the harsh winter, this is a soothing diaper balm for your baby’s bum and other delicate parts.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

17. Believe Diapers

Believe Diapers

Believe Diapers is the first socially-responsible diaper brand with a true 1-for-1 charitable model, set to change the course of diaper need in America. With an immediate determination to do good, the brand will not only donate one pack of diapers for every pack sold, but they will also be donating 1 million diapers to Good+ Foundation, a leading nonprofit organization that is working to dismantle multigenerational poverty and create an upwards trajectory for families in need.

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(Believe Diapers, prices vary)

Baby Bath 

18. Ettitude Waffle Towel

Ettitude Waffle Towel

Keep your baby warm and dry with this ultra-soft, absorbent waffle-weave hooded towel. Free from harmful chemicals and extra-gentle on baby’s delicate skin.

(Ettitude, $26)

19. Green Goo Baby Lavender + Chamomile Lotion

Green Goo Baby Lavender + Chamomile Lotion

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This all-natural, nutrient-rich formula soothes, moisturizes, and protects young skin without the sticky residue found in traditional lotions, while the gentle scent of lavender helps calm and comfort.

(Green Goo, $16.95)

20. Puracy Natural Baby Shampoo & Body Wash

Puracy Natural Baby Shampoo & Body Wash

Hypoallergenic and extra-gentle, this tear-free baby shampoo and body wash formula is safe and gentle for daily bath time.

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(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

21. Infantino 12 Piece Tub O' Toys

Infantino 12 Piece Tub O' Toys

These twelve animal friends are a colorful and fun addition to your baby's playtime, bath time and even quiet time. These squeezable, teethable animal pals are all BPA-free and perfect for squirting water in the tub.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

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22. Earth Baby Bubble Bath

Earth Baby Bubble Bath

An ultra-foamy, effervescent baby spa treatment for maximizing the most out of your baby's bath. 

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

23. KeaBabies Baby Hair Brush and Comb Set For Newborns

KeaBabies Baby Hair Brush and Comb Set For Newborns

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This wooden newborn hairbrush uses premium-grade goat bristles that are soft and non-invasive for your newborn's delicate scalp. It also helps in even oil distribution to prevent cradle caps and promote healthy hair growth. 

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

24. Boxy Baby Moisture

Boxy Baby Moisture

This gentle moisturizing lotion is the perfect after-bath essential for baby. Rich in jojoba oil and packed with nourishing Vitamins E and B, it helps promote healthy, hydrated skin without leaving a greasy residue.

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(Boxy Baby, $64)

RELATED: Why Distracted Parenting Has Become The Hardest Part Of Being A Working Mom

Baby Feeding

25. Comotomo Baby Bottle Bundle

For bottle-feeding moms, these baby bottles are designed to closely mimic breastfeeding to reduce bottle rejection, its dual anti-colic vents prevent unwanted air-intake and reduce colic, and its wide-neck design allows for easy cleaning by hand without a brush.

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(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

26. Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra

Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra

A game-changer for any postpartum mama, this all-in-one bra combines the best features of your favorite nursing and hands-free pumping bras so you can wear the same bra all day (or all night) long for pumping, nursing, or both at the same time.

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(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

27. Green Goo Nursing Comfort Salve

Green Goo Nursing Comfort Salve

Plant-based, vegetarian, and non-toxic, this all-natural formula provides soothing relief for sore, cracked nipples.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

28. Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow

Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow

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This breastfeeding pillow can be taken anywhere mom and baby need to go and its soft-but-firm core helps support proper breastfeeding positioning without pressing on your sensitive stomach. 

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

29. Grabease Silicone Baby Training Spoon + Pacifier Clip

Grabease Silicone Baby Training Spoon + Pacifier Clip

Many baby utensil handles are too slender for baby’s chubby grip — this spoon's fat, textured handle is the perfect size and shape for easy handling, and the anti-choke guard ensures each bite is a safe one. 

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(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

30. Simka Rose Silicone Baby Bibs

Simka Rose Silicone Baby Bibs

These extra-wide bucket bibs stay open and catch more dropped food, keeping your baby clean and dry during meals.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

31. KeaBabies Organic Burp Cloths

KeaBabies Organic Burp Cloths

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Spit-ups, puke, and drool are an inevitable part of parenting. These burp cloths are made to be ultra-soft and absorbent and 100% organic cotton on both sides of it means it's safe for your baby's sensitive skin.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

32. Philips Avent Fast Baby Bottle Warmer

Philips Avent Fast Baby Bottle Warmer

A safe and easy way to make mealtime more comfortable for your baby. Once switched on, the warmer gently heats bottles and baby food within three minutes and its compact size makes it easy to store on a kitchen countertop or bedside table for nighttime feedings.

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(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

33. Bökee Baby Bottle Holder

Bökee Baby Bottle Holder

Tired of trying to prep your bottle while cradling your hungry baby? The bökee enables one-handed prep of any bottle, sippy cup or medicine bottle so the other hand can be freed up for what matters most: taking care of your baby.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

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34. Philips Avent Drying Rack

Philips Avent Drying Rack

Helping you to dry your baby's feeding products in an organized way and easy filling thanks to a flexible design that can be adjusted to your baby's needs.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

35. Kindred Bravely Lucille Nursing Nightgown & Maternity Gown

Kindred Bravely Lucille Nursing Nightgown & Maternity Gown

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This super-soft maternity & nursing gown’s empire waist allows room for your growing baby bump and flatters your post-baby body, plus allows for clip-down breastfeeding access.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

RELATED: 14 Early Signs You're Having A Boy To Look For During Your Pregnancy

36. Delta Children Ella Rocker 

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Designed with modern rounded curves, a metal base and solid wood feet, this rocking chair includes a movable lumbar cushion for additional support and its stain-resistant and moisture-repelling abilities make it an ideal, baby-safe choice. A stylish, unisex and sustainable seat for your nursery. (The matching ottoman's cute, too.)

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

37. Oribel Cocoon 3-Stage High Chair

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This modern high chair that grows with your child (and folds to save space!) is ergonomically designed to facilitate feeding and eating. The waterproof EVA seat wipes down easily, allowing for quick clean-up and no food-trapped corners. Plus, you can swap the large feeding tray with its unique food & cup holder to get closer to your baby for unobstructed feeding during early feeding stages.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

38. ezpz Mini Mat

ezpz Mini Mat

A great mealtime solution for both infants and travel, the Mini Mat is an all-in-one placemat and plate that suctions to the table. The mat’s stable base reduces tipped bowls and plates and helps infants and toddlers learn to self-feed.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

Baby Health

39. Babyganics Infant Cradle Cap Cleansing Oil

Babyganics Infant Cradle Cap Cleansing Oil

Use this special cradle cap cleanser to gently lift away flakes on tiny scalps with an oh-so-gently built-in brush.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

40. Dr. Talbot's Soothing Gel with Natural Ingredients for Sore Gums 

Dr. Talbot's Soothing Gel with Natural Ingredients for Sore Gums

A soothing gel with natural ingredients to quickly soothe baby's gums — plus comes with a Gum-eez teether to provide comfort.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

41. bblüv Termö 4-in-1 Digital Thermometer

bblüv Termö 4-in-1 Digital Thermometer

The Termö allows precise, instantaneous, and non-contact temperature measurement and is designed to measure body temperatures such as your child’s forehead, ears and armpit and various surfaces such as a bottle of milk, food, or bathwater as well as room temperature.

(bblüv, $69.99)

42. Attitude Baby Laundry Detergent

Attitude Baby Laundry Detergent

A safe liquid laundry detergent for babies: Graded A on Environmental Working Group (EWG), this baby laundry detergent only contains baby-safe ingredients that are cleaner and gentler than traditional ones.

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

Baby Gear

43. Chicco KeyFit35 Infant Car Seat

Chicco KeyFit35 Infant Car Seat

Engineered with innovative safety features that make it easy to install and use correctly, plus upgraded features comfortably and securely accommodate your baby’s growth, providing headrest height, legroom, and stability for extended rear-facing use.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

44. Líllé Baby Serenity Airflow Baby Carrier

Líllé Baby Serenity Airflow Baby Carrier

Customizable comfort at its best, this airflow carrier takes comfort and versatility to the next level. Designed with three positions for baby (narrow, medium and wide seat) and six carrying positions, you'll have more options to find the perfect fit for both you and baby.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

45. aden + anais Cotton Muslin Stroller Blanket

aden + anais Cotton Muslin Stroller Blanket

Their softest baby blanket yet, this travel blanket is perfectly-sized for any adventure.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

46. Colugo Compact Stroller 

For the mom-on-the-go who doesn't want to lug around a hefty buggy with all the bells & whistles, this stroller easily folds with one hand, fits almost anywhere, and comes with a machine washable layer. It’s everything you'll need to get out and explore the world with your mini partner-in-crime.

(Colugo, $285)

Postpartum Care

47. Kindred Bravely High-Waist Postpartum Underwear

Kindred Bravely High-Waist Postpartum Underwear

No need to sacrifice comfort and style with these ultra-soft, high-waisted recovery panties — a must-pack for your hospital bag. Ideal for vaginal delivery, post-op, and ongoing C-section recovery, this full-coverage underwear is made of ultra-stretchy fabric that sits above your waist (or C-section incision) and naturally conforms to your changing body. 

(Check prices and reviews on Amazon)

48. Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter

Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter

For your ever-growing belly, keep your skin feeling soft and healthy, during and after pregnancy.

(Check for prices and reviews on Amazon)

49. Mor for Moms Mor Self-Care Kit

Mor for Moms Mor Self-Care Kit

This postpartum self-care kit was designed with one thing in mind: new moms. Included are eight products the are critical during the post-pregnancy period: maternity pads, overnight pads, cooling witch hazel pads, cleansing bottle, ice packs, mesh panties, nursing pads, and nipple cream.

(Mor for Moms, $75)

50. BabyLabs Stretch Mark Cream

This luxurious cream contains all-natural ingredients to help alleviate belly itch, protect skin and may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the belly and rest of the body. It's extra-gentle and crafted with organic oils, rich cocoa, and shea butter, and soothing botanicals to truly nourish and help tone pregnant skin.

(BabyLabs, $14.99)

RELATED: New Study ConfirmsThat Kids Get Their Intelligence From Mom

Andrea Zimmerman is the editor-at-large at YourTango. She enjoys reading, traveling, and reading while traveling. Follow her on Instagram.

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